Your natural stone kitchen countertops suffer stains from acids and alkalis, grit and dirt of all types. The minute pores present in the stone allow liquids and gases to penetrate. This slowly damages the stone from both the inside and the outside, spoiling its life-span and look. Hence, sealers play a vital role in protecting your kitchen countertops from such damages.
A sealer is a special product comprising a mixture of chemicals. It is directly applied to the stone surface. So, the colour, durability, strength and insulation properties of the stone remain uninjured.
The following context explains more about sealers for granite and marble kitchen countertops - the most loved products by homeowners.
Common Types Of Granite And Marble Sealers
There are three types of sealers that are usually applied to marble countertops and granite countertops in the kitchen.
Topical Sealer - This type is made from natural wax, polyurethane, or acrylics. As the name suggests, the sealer stays only on the surface of the stone. So they are effective at preventing stains from seeping in but they may wear out quickly. Applying a topical sealer changes the look and slip properties of the surface. Besides, water vapour and gases can escape through it.
Penetrating Sealer -This one shows very good resistance to liquid penetration. Thanks to its composition which includes siliconates, fluor-polymers and siloxanes. It does not sit only on the surface but goes a bit deeper. Hence, it lasts longer than a topical sealer. A penetrating sealer can change the slip qualities of the stone surface. However, it does not alter your kitchen countertops look.
Impregnating Sealer -This type consists of silanes or modified silanes. An Impregnating sealer seeps in the deeper layers of the stone filling the pores with its molecules. Hence, it is extremely effective in repelling water and oil that tries to enter the interiors of the stone. Some types of sealers under this category are effective against efflorescence and frost weathering.
Nanotech Sealer -This is the most advanced type available to protect your marble and granite kitchen countertops. The nanotechnology used in the sealer makes the stone resistant to water, chemicals, environmental damage, dirt, decay and UV light. Nanotech sealer is highly durable.
The best granite or marble sealer will go beyond and help in enhancing the colour. It will also protect the stone against graffiti and prevent yellowing.
How To Seal Your Granite Kitchen Countertops?
Granite is the least porous of all the natural stones. But you still need to seal granite to give it 100% protection. A granite countertop will usually need resealing once a year. However, this depends on certain factors. For example, a lighter colour such as beige granite is more prone to damage than black granite. Darker colours need fewer resealing.
What You Don’t Want In Your Granite Sealer?- Silicon-based sealers
- Siloxane sealers
- Citrus-based ingredients (causes yellowing)
- Linseed oil (causes yellowing)
- Choose either penetrating sealer or impregnating sealer
- Use sealers having fluorocarbon aliphatic resins.
- Apply sealers that are safe to use around food (non-toxic sealer)
- Use sealers that are specially made for granite tiles and slabs.
How To Seal Marble Kitchen Countertops?
Marble tiles and slabs are more porous than granite. Hence, you need to re-seal them more frequently - maybe once every few months. This will keep your marble countertop looking fresh and beautiful and will protect it from damages.
What You Don’t Want In Your Marble Sealer?- Topical sealer
- Any acid-based ingredients like citrus (reacts with marble creating dull spots)
- Linseed oil (causes yellowing)
- Tung oil (causes yellowing)
- Impregnating sealer
- Acid-resistant sealer
- Acid-resistant coating to avoid discolouring, peeling or chipping
- Non-toxic sealers safe around food
Water-based Sealer Vs Solvent-based Sealer
Both the sealers work for granite and marble countertops. However, the best choice depends on what you are looking for. Water-based sealers are best at repelling oil. Whereas a solvent-based one is best at repelling water. Choose the one considering activities done on your kitchen countertops.
How Often Does Your Kitchen Countertops Require Resealing?
Before we answer this question, remember one thing. A sealer will work best only if it is applied properly on the stone surface. It is very important to completely saturate the stone before the sealer dries up on the surface. It is best to get the task done by professional granite and marble suppliers/manufacturers.
If you are doubtful about whether your marble or granite kitchen countertops requires resealing conduct the following test.
Sprinkle a few drops of water on the countertop surface. Let it sit for a while and check if the stone is absorbing water and darkening in colour. If the stone is absorbing the water in four minutes or less than it is time to reseal your countertop.
How Can Quality Marble Exports (India) Help?
There is a wide range of granite and marble sealers available in the market. Each one offers a varying level of protection. Plus, it also depends on how porous your kitchen countertop is. The finish of the stone also plays a role.
For instance, a honed finish requires more frequent sealing than a polished one. To make the best choice, Quality Marble Exports (India) is here to help you. For over three decades, we have been know as the top marble suppliers and granite suppliers, supplying marble and granite countertops.
Reach out to us for any further queries. We are here to protect your countertop with the best sealers required.
